προκοπή (prokopē)
prokopē
progress
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun prokopē denotes a forward movement or progress, literally describing the act of advancing along a path. Its root combines a prefix meaning "before" or "forward" with a verb for "to lean forward," evoking the physical image of stepping ahead. In the New Testament, this term appears only three times, consistently applied to spiritual growth rather than physical travel.
Paul uses prokopē in Philippians 1:12 and 1:25 to describe how his imprisonment actually accelerated the spread of the gospel. He also employs it in 1 Timothy 4:15 to urge Timothy to focus on his own development in faith and teaching. The word captures a steady, directional improvement in one’s walk with God.
Though classical Greek writers sometimes criticized its usage as informal, Scripture embraces it to describe the Christian life as a journey of continuous advancement. It suggests that growth is not static but moves purposefully forward, marked by increasing maturity and impact.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Spiritual growth is rarely a straight line, yet the New Testament assures us that every step counts. The Greek word prokopē describes this forward movement, capturing the idea of steady progress in our walk with God. It reminds us that even difficult seasons can serve a greater purpose, advancing the gospel and deepening our faith.
Paul’s own imprisonment became an opportunity for the Good News to spread further (Philippians 1:12). This shows that God uses our challenges to produce growth, not just in us, but through us. When we face obstacles, we can trust that He is working for our advancement and His glory.
As you seek to grow, remember that progress is visible. Paul urged Timothy to give himself wholly to his faith so that his progress might be revealed to all (1 Timothy 4:15). This doesn’t mean perfection, but a consistent direction toward Christ. May you find encouragement in knowing that every small step forward is seen and valued by God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- progress2×
- [the] advancement1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- προκοπὴν2×
- προκοπὴ1×
Key Verses
-
Philippians 1:12
Now I desire to have you know, brothers, that the things which happened to me have turned out rather to the progress of the Good News,
This verse shows how external hardships can unexpectedly accelerate the spread of the gospel, turning personal suffering into spiritual progress.
-
Philippians 1:25
Having this confidence, I know that I will remain, yes, and remain with you all for your progress and joy in the faith,
Here Paul links his continued presence with the believers' own advancement and joy in their faith, highlighting community as a driver of growth.
-
I Timothy 4:15
Be diligent in these things. Give yourself wholly to them, that your progress may be revealed to all.
This occurrence emphasizes that diligent focus on spiritual disciplines results in visible maturity that others can observe and be encouraged by.